HSA raids nightclub in Coleman Street as agency turns up heat in anti-vaping drive

SINGAPORE – An anti-vaping operation by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has uncovered an alleged e-vaporiser distribution network led by the manager of a nightclub.

It follows a raid at a nightclub in Coleman Street on May 15.

In a release on June 13, HSA said the man is assisting the authority in investigations on the possession and sale of e-vaporisers.

The man worked at Club Slim, a nightclub in Excelsior Shopping Centre.

A spokesman for HSA said: “HSA officers caught the 45-year-old club manager, who admitted selling e-vaporisers to the club’s staff members.

“HSA officers also uncovered additional evidence, allegedly linking him to an illegal distribution network, after conducting a search of his vehicle and residence.”

Officers also checked club patrons. Five individuals – three men and two women, aged between 22 and 40 – were found in possession of e-vaporisers and components.

They were issued with on-the-spot fines.

Said the HSA spokesman: “This raid was part of HSA’s stepped-up enforcement and continuing efforts to combat the unauthorised sale and use of e-vaporisers at nightlife establishments.”

From January 2024 to March 2025, the authority seized more than $41 million worth of e-vaporisers and components, and conducted 50 successful operations against large-scale e-vaporiser syndicates.

During the same period, the authority also prosecuted 60 people aged 17 to 43 for selling e-vaporisers, including two key figures in an e-vaporiser syndicate case involving more than $5 million worth of e-vaporisers.

Investigations are also ongoing in relation to a key figure of another syndicate, who was nabbed in October 2024. He is allegedly involved in a case relating to more than $6.5 million worth of e-vaporisers. 

Since February 2018, vaping has been outlawed in Singapore. Possessing, using and buying e-vaporisers carry a maximum fine of $2,000.

Distributing, importing and selling prohibited tobacco products such as vapes and their components carry a heavier penalty – a fine of up to $10,000, or imprisonment of up to six months, or both.

Smokers who need help with quitting can call the Health Promotion Board’s toll-free QuitLine on 1800-438-2000.

Members of the public who have information on the illegal import, distribution or sale of e-vaporisers can contact the Tobacco Regulation Branch on 6684-2036 or 6684-2037 during office hours.